President Cyril Ramaphosa Holds Talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin

Pretoria – South African President Cyril Ramaphosa had a phone call with his Russian counterpart, President Vladimir Putin.

On Thursday, 7 August 2025, the Presidency revealed that the two leaders spoke earlier “this afternoon.”

Vincent Magwenya, the President’s spokesperson, remarked: “The conversation came at President Putin’s request to brief President Ramaphosa on the peace process concerning Ukraine and to address topics of mutual bilateral interest.”

Magwenya continued: “President Putin recognized and valued South Africa’s role in fostering a peace process between Russia and Ukraine.”

“President Ramaphosa welcomed the update and reiterated South Africa’s unwavering support for peace initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict and establishing enduring peace between Russia and Ukraine.”

Magwenya noted that the two leaders concurred on the need to further their discussions to strengthen the strategic ties between their countries.

Meanwhile, reports from Moscow indicate President Putin’s intention to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump soon.

The Kremlin has announced that these discussions are likely to occur in the United Arab Emirates.